2021 Growing Spaces Articles Archive
40 posts
A year of touring domes across the country, from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest to New England and off-grid Colorado. Alongside the featured greenhouses, 2021 covered fruit trees, soil testing, ventilation, and the dome-grown recipes to match.
The Worlds Best Chili Verde AKA Colorado Green Chili
December 8, 2021
Everyone has their favorite version of chili. Some like it spicy, some like it mild, some like it red, some like it green. If you’re like me, you can eat chili all winter long and be happy as can be. It’s easy to make, stores well, and is the perfect match for many other dishes. Before I had a large family, I used to store it in the freezer and warm it up as needed. Now we never have any leftovers, ever! The kids beg for it, and if it gets approved by them, it’s approved by me. That makes life so much more straightforward, plus it is one of my top favorite things to eat. It also keeps us nice and toasty in these cold winter months in Colorado.
Jeff Forristall’s Small Outdoor Greenhouse
December 8, 2021
The last time we caught up with Jeff and his puppy Theo was in December of 2020, not long after he planted his first round of crops. We are excited to jump back in one year later and tell you a little about the changes and improvements Jeff has made since then.
Colorado School of Mines Dome Greenhouse
November 8, 2021
Every year the seniors at the Colorado School of Mines participate in a Capstone Design Project. In the fall of 2020, Marla, Christine, Hannah, Juliana, Andrea, Micah, and Zoe took on the Mines Greenhouse Capstone project. They were met with the challenge to establish a “campus greenhouse that will supply local organic produce to Mines students and Mines Market. The team rose to the challenge raising over $7,000 for the project and splitting the solution into two parts. The first part is raised outdoor garden beds that serve as a community garden space where students can rent plots and grow food. The second part is a 22’ Growing Dome better known by students as “Mines Tiny Greenhouse.”
The World’s Best Butternut Squash Soup
November 6, 2021
This is the time of year that we are all looking for those soothing, warm us up, type recipes, to help acclimate to the changing cold temperatures outside. This soup says fall flavor as much as pumpkin spice! This recipe is creamy, vegan, nourishing, and is full of cozy fall flavors. It's the ultimate comfort food to keep you full & warm this season. It can be frozen or stored in the fridge for up to a week. If you do have any leftovers, it's easy to reheat for a quick lunch on a cold afternoon.
Attracting Bees to your Greenhouse
October 13, 2021
Will Bees Help Your Greenhouse? Attracting bees to your greenhouse will certainly encourage ample harvests. New greenhouses don’t always get discovered by local pollinators, which might leave the gardener empty-handed, or with much less produce than anticipated when it comes time to harvest. It is the job of the gardener to help pollinators find the…
A Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe
October 9, 2021
Brussels sprouts get a bad rap. They are notorious for many kids and adults alike having utter disdain for them. Have no fear! These roasted brussels sprouts are delicious, nutritious, and easy! They melt in your mouth, have caramelized outer edges, and a little crunch at first bite. I’m willing to bet, these little bites of goodness will convert any Brussels sprout hater.
The Garwood’s Double Dome Story
October 8, 2021
You might ask yourself how someone who was "never really was a gardener" found herself with not one but two greenhouses. Well, according to Kate, the answer was simple, "peas." They didn't have enough room to grow all of the peas they wanted (10 pea plants) and other varieties of fruits and vegetables to eat.
A Community of Happy Growers Connecting and Sharing
October 8, 2021
In spring, early high temperatures are a huge benefit--especially in our mountain location with a short growing season. But as spring turns into summer, the increasing heat in the dome can turn our sanctuary into an oven unless it’s managed correctly. Over the years, we’ve learned how to adapt our growing practices, our plant choices, and even our plant locations to make the most of summer heat and provide much-needed shade for the water tank.
News and Events, Fall/Winter 2021
October 8, 2021
Stratton School has expanded the garden program to include a grow dome, allowing the program to run through all but the coldest months.“The goal of the garden program is to provide a sustainable, alternative food experience for students and faculty that encourages hands-on learning, health, and well-being at Eustis School,” Wuori said. “Stratton School wants all students to leave Stratton with the knowledge of food choice and the importance of community through understanding local resources.”
Fried Green Tomatoes: Not the Movie But Just as Good!
September 8, 2021
My family comes from a long line of deep-fried southern cooking. A whole lot of comfort food made with butter, buttermilk, cream, lard, and pretty much anything that would clog your arteries. Tastes great but we have to be practical about our health these days and try to incorporate some healthy substitutions that will make our classic dishes modern, delicious, and less fat and calorie-dense.
From Novice to Green Thumb: The McKibbens’ Colorado Greenhouse Success
September 7, 2021
Being a gardener in Colorado is tricky. Especially at high altitude (7,600 ft) in Bayfield, where amateur gardeners Bob and Radel Mckibben have made their home. If it is not wind or hail destroying their outside garden, it's critters and cold weather. That is until 2020, when they fell in love with a Growing Dome greenhouse after hearing of it from a friend and taking a tour in person—deciding to purchase a 26' greenhouse kit as a 50th-anniversary gift for each other.
Reasons to Get a Growing Dome for Growing 365 Days a Year: Food Security
August 23, 2021
For many of our customers: the uncertainty of food supply in the coming years and decades due to climate and weather changes, disruptions in global and domestic supply lines, and rising grocery costs. A further concern for many is that “Big Ag” systems yield less and less nutrient-dense produce.
Off-Grid Gardening in the Mountains of Coaldale, Colorado
August 5, 2021
Like many in our Growing Dome community, Laurel and Will Biedermann’s Growing Dome adventure started with a dream. A dream for a more sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle. In 2016 Laurel and Will retired from city life in Colorado Springs and relocated to the small mountain town of Coaldale, Colorado, to begin their self-sufficient journey.
Delicious Shrimp and Nasturtium Salad with Pine Nuts
August 4, 2021
Working at Growing Spaces for more than a decade has allotted me many exciting perks. The one I enjoy the most is having access to fresh produce, veggies, herbs, greens, and fruits all year round. For many years, I have walked into the Growing Dome, like it was the grocery store, at lunchtime and hand-picked my lunch. This shrimp and nasturtium salad is one of my favorite easy Dome Grown recipes.
Managing Summer Temperatures in Your Growing Dome Greenhouse
August 4, 2021
In spring, early high temperatures are a huge benefit--especially in our mountain location with a short growing season. But as spring turns into summer, the increasing heat in the dome can turn our sanctuary into an oven unless it’s managed correctly. Over the years, we’ve learned how to adapt our growing practices, our plant choices, and even our plant locations to make the most of summer heat and provide much-needed shade for the water tank.
Growing Vegetables in Alaska Hardiness Zone 6A
July 6, 2021
Mardell Gunn and her partner, Mark Kistler, aka Diz, had been gardening in Haines, Alaska, using standard hoop houses for several years. In 2016, they searched for a polycarbonate structure that could withstand heavy snow loads and humid summers while providing a protected environment to grow fresh heat-loving vegetables that can't be grown successfully outside. Specifically, tomatoes. That's when the internet led them to a 26' Growing Dome.
News and Events Summer 2021
July 2, 2021
We are thrilled to announce our 2nd Annual Customer Appreciation Party that will be held at our Pagosa Springs Domes from 12 to 4 pm on Saturday, September 11th. This will be a fantastic opportunity to socialize with current dome owners and meet people who are passionate about gardening. We will be offering tours of all five of our Growing Domes, along with Growing Dome gardening classes taught by some of our experts. There will be fresh food, local craft beer, games for kids & adults, and music. We will also have Growing Spaces swag to give away.
News and Events Spring 2021
June 17, 2021
We are planning to attend two socially distanced events this Spring to give you an opportunity to visit some wonderful Growing Domes in Colorado. The San Luis Valley Seed Exchange at Joyful Journey, and the Earth Day Riverwalk Event at the Geothermal Greenhouse Project in Pagosa Springs Colorado.
How to Create a Beautiful Pond Garden
June 17, 2021
The above-ground pond included with our greenhouse kits creates an optimal opportunity for growth. -- It aids the growth of your plants in your raised beds, acting as the greenhouse's primary source of thermal mass, but it can also foster the growth of aquatic plants & fish. It can even promote the growth of a peaceful environment with soothing sounds and art.
Greenhouse Sanctuary in Southern Colorado
June 2, 2021
Retirement, and the past year at home, has allowed Udgar and Puja to slow down and experience the joy of their Growing Dome® as a place of sanctuary from a Growing Dome® owner’s perspective as opposed to that of busy business owners.
Easy Instant-Pot Artichoke with Dipping Sauce
June 2, 2021
Artichokes are a beautiful plant. Those who don’t grow them may not realize that they are immature flower buds from the thistle plant. Appetizing? We don’t know who decided first to try these odd little pokey guys, but we sure are glad they did. They come in many varieties, but the most common one that we use in cooking is called a globe artichoke. They can be intimidating, but I’m going to help you with that.
Spring Gardening in a Growing Dome Greenhouse
May 20, 2021
Spring is such an exciting time to be a gardener especially following months of winter gardening. Days are quickly getting longer, plants are growing faster, and everything is “springing into life”. Here at Growing Spaces, we celebrate spring by nurturing soil, ordering seeds, and getting loads of starts ready for transplanting. Follow along as we connect with Head Growing Dome Gardener, Heather Gray, review her must-do spring gardening tasks, and get a peek into our greenhouses on-site in Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Growing Spaces 2021 Urban Farming Grant Winners
May 3, 2021
The first recipient of our urban farming grant is Black Nickel (Hustlaz 2 Harvesters, & Garfield Terrace) in Washington DC. Black Nickel’s mission is to redevelop and revive neglected community farms and gardens in DC, and throughout the nation, and create a prototype of local farmer’s markets owned by minorities and people of color. Their goal is to implement training and education programs for children and young adults, helping foster their relationship with STEM and agriculture.
School Garden Program In Connecticut
May 3, 2021
Along the border of New York and Connecticut in the Northwest Hills, there is an “intentionally small” school. The Marvelwood School in Kent, Connecticut, is a school for grades 9-12 who are inspired to find their passions through hands-on experiences and where gardening is considered an “essential skill that enriches lives.”
Roasted Red Pepper and Cauliflower Hot or Cold Soup
May 2, 2021
I started making this creamy southern comfort food in 2007. My friend owns a southern, Mardi Gras-themed comfort food restaurant. She gave me the recipe because I was obsessed with how yummy it was! I’ve been making this exact broccoli casserole dish for holiday gatherings and potlucks ever since, and people always want more! My family loves it.
How to Grow Fruit Trees in a Greenhouse
April 17, 2021
Fruit trees can be a healthy addition to most dome greenhouse gardens above zone 3. They provide fresh fruit and shade in the summer with the bonus of attracting pollinators when flowering. Understanding a plant’s natural environment (tropical, subtropical, or temperate to continental) and how to stimulate it will help you grow a wide variety of plants from fruit trees to shrubs, which will give you more confidence in your dome gardening adventure.
How to Thin Crowded Seedlings
April 4, 2021
Many seedlings grow quickly in the spring when the days get longer. Thinning seedlings is a necessity but can become slightly more difficult if you overseeded or if your old seed packets had a higher germination rate than you were expecting. In any case, overcrowding is common and seedlings will almost always benefit from careful thinning.
Homestead Greenhouse in the Pacific Northwest
April 3, 2021
Homesteading is a dream for so many of the Growing Spaces community. A step back in time when life was simpler. Riding your horse and carriage into new territories, staking your claim to a piece of fertile land, and planting seeds that will root down into your new lifestyle. It is about self-sufficiency, living off the land, healthy livestock, and sustainable agriculture.
The Best Way to Eat Your Broccoli: Broccoli Casserole!
March 30, 2021
I started making this creamy southern comfort food in 2007. My friend owns a southern, Mardi Gras-themed comfort food restaurant. She gave me the recipe because I was obsessed with how yummy it was! I’ve been making this exact broccoli casserole dish for holiday gatherings and potlucks ever since, and people always want more! My family loves it.
How to Test and Amend Your Garden Soil
March 19, 2021
Any indoor growing space is more prone to dry soil and fertility loss simply because it is not getting as much water. The garden soil in a Growing Dome needs extra care to produce optimally year after year. This article will explain a simple process for every gardener to maintain healthy soil in the spring and summer and achieve ultimate success.
Heirloom Tomatoes in a Growing Dome Greenhouse
March 1, 2021
Robyn & Martin Schulze purchased their property in Chromo, Colorado, many years ago, with a dream to move away from Longmont, Colorado, upon retirement. This is where they first heard of Growing Spaces on one of their many weekend trips to the property. At the time, Robyn was doing her best to tend an outdoor garden in Longmont where the weather was wild, and the winds were strong. She knew that someday she would have her very own Growing Dome.
Simple Pad Thai Recipe: Shrimp, Chicken, or Vegan.
February 26, 2021
Most people think you can't make restaurant-quality food at home. Well, I am here to tell you if that is your sentiment, you are sorely mistaken. I am going to change your mind! It took me more tries than I would like to admit to getting it right. To keep it clean & healthy, but decadent and delicious.
Why Greenhouses Need Ventilation: Fans, Vents, Airflow & Plant Health
February 26, 2021
Greenhouse ventilation helps prevent heat stress, humidity buildup, and stagnant air so plants stay healthier year-round. Learn how vents, fans, and seasonal airflow strategies support better growing conditions.
How To Grow Fig Trees In Your Greenhouse
February 17, 2021
Fig trees are one of the best ways to achieve summer shade and stabilized temperatures in your Growing Dome Greenhouse. They are forgiving in depleted dry soil conditions, extreme heat or cold, and inadequate ventilation conditions. Fig trees are relatively disease and pest resistant. They produce broad leaves at the perfect time in the spring to provide natural shade for your plants and lose them just in time for fall when you need more sun. Figs thrive in full sun and make delicious fruit. It is hard to imagine a better fruit tree for dome greenhouse growing.
Smooth and Creamy Hummus Recipe
February 2, 2021
It’s easy to make and delicious on just about any vegetable, cracker, pita chip, or toast. You can add just about any herb, spice, or vegetable you like to adjust the taste. Bonus points if it was grown in your Growing Dome.
Beautiful Greenhouse in New Hampshire
February 2, 2021
Terry believes that the Growing Dome is more than just a backyard greenhouse and encourages "others to look at it as a piece of art. It's just so cool!" Terry spends many nights 'glamping' in her Growing Dome, and has added many other artistic touches like a fireplace, colorful LED lights, and even spray painted her pond with a beautiful sunset scene.
Urban Greenhouse Gardening in Golden, Colorado
February 1, 2021
Malik is originally from Iowa where he graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor's in Enterprise Leadership and a Psychology minor. His passion for gardening and growing food flourished during his time in the Grow: Johnson County apprentice program. It was clear after spending just a short period of time with Malik that he is passionate and dedicated to educating others about the importance of growing your own food.
How to Improve Garden Soil Over the Winter
January 19, 2021
Nurture Your Soil to Keep Your Dome Greenhouse Garden Thriving All Year It is easy to forget that our garden’s soil is alive with organic matter even when there are not any plants growing in it. Soil provides moisture and nutrients to your plants. But to do so correctly, the soil requires a healthy level…
Automated Greenhouse in Suburban Denver
January 1, 2021
In addition to gas, electricity, and water, Richard ran an Ethernet cable underground through the conduit to a PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch in the dome. This allowed him to plug a WiFi node and a SmartThings hub into the switch. He then installed three PoE cams in the Dome: one on the north end, one on the south, and one underwater. "I can watch the dome interior on my phone or computer anywhere. I put in a set of three 6 watt LED lights on the bottom of the pool, so now I can see the fish more easily. For backup, there is a SmartThings temp/humidity sensor in the dome and a door sensor that can warn me if I’ve left the door open.
Best Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
January 1, 2021
New Year’s is always a good time to make your favorite appetizers, dips, and drinks. I’ve been experimenting with different ways to make my creamy, cheesy spinach artichoke dip over the years. I have experimented with full-fat cream cheese, Neufchâtel cheese, mozzarella cheese, and even vegan substitutes. This is my favorite dip recipe, and it is pretty simple. It melts in your mouth! You will want to double the recipe just for yourself.